Having chronic constipation! When to visit a specialist?
Constipation is a typical digestive disorder that can impact people of all ages. It is characterized by irregular bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, and a feeling of insufficient evacuation. While periodic constipation is not usually a cause for concern, chronic constipation can lead to severe health issues if left untreated. If you are struggling with chronic constipation, it may be time to visit a gastroenterologist. In this blog post, we will explore the signs and symptoms of chronic constipation and when to seek the help of a Kaizen Gastro Care Expert.
What is Chronic Constipation?
Chronic constipation is defined as having less than three bowel movements per week for a duration of several months. It can be caused by a variety of aspects, including a low-fiber diet, dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Symptoms of Chronic Constipation:
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from chronic constipation:
- Difficulty passing stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Hard, lumpy stools
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating or gas
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Rectal bleeding (in severe cases)
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you have been undergoing chronic constipation for several months, it may be time to seek medical help. Here are some signs and symptoms that you should visit a specialist:
- Your symptoms are severe or worsening: If you are experiencing extreme abdominal pain, bloating, or vomiting, or if your constipation is getting worse despite your efforts to treat it, you should seek medical awareness as soon as possible. These symptoms could be a sign of a more severe underlying condition, such as a bowel obstruction or colon cancer.
- You are experiencing rectal bleeding: If you are undergoing rectal bleeding, you should see a doctor right away. While rectal bleeding can be caused by something as simple as hemorrhoids, it can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer.
- You have been constipated for more than a few weeks: If you have been constipated for more than a few weeks and your symptoms are not improving, you should see a doctor. Chronic constipation can lead to a number of health problems, including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse.
- You have tried home remedies without success: If you have tried home remedies such as increasing your fiber intake, drinking more water, and exercising regularly, and your constipation is still not improving, you should see a doctor. Your specialist may recommend prescription medications or other treatments to help relieve your symptoms.
- You have a history of gastrointestinal problems: If you have a past of gastrointestinal problems such as IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or diverticulitis, you should see a stomach specialist if you are experiencing chronic constipation. These conditions can increase your risk of developing complications from constipation, such as fecal impaction or intestinal blockages.
What to Expect During a Visit to a Specialist?
During your visit to Kaizen Gastro Care, you can expect to undergo a physical exam and provide a detailed medical history. Your doctor may also ask for diagnostic tests such as blood work, a stool analysis, or a colonoscopy to resolve the underlying cause of your constipation. Based on your symptoms and test results, your Kaizen Gastro Expert will advise an appropriate treatment plan, which may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, medications, or surgery.
Chronic constipation can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but it is important to seek medical help if your symptoms persist. If you are experiencing severe or worsening symptoms, contact Kaizen Gastro Care.